Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Georgia, all mechanically propelled vessels and sailboats over 12 feet in length on public waters. There are 4 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All mechanically propelled vessels and sailboats over 12 feet in length on public waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, rubber rafts)
- Sailboats less than 12 feet without mechanical propulsion
- Vessels registered in another state used in Georgia for 60 or fewer consecutive days
- Vessels operated exclusively on private ponds or lakes
Registration Fees & Costs
Georgia boat registration fees range from $45.00 to $220.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 4% sales tax, and title fees are $18.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Boats < 16 ft | $35.00 | $45.00 |
| Boats 16–25 ft | $70.00 | $80.00 |
| Boats 26–39 ft | $140.00 | $150.00 |
| Boats 40+ ft | $210.00 | $220.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 4%
Title Fee: $18.00
How to Register Your Boat in Georgia
To register a boat in Georgia, you must apply within Within 30 days of purchase of purchase through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division portal
- In Person: At your local Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division office
- By Mail: Download forms from the official website
Required Documents
- Completed registration application form
- Bill of Sale or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- Valid photo identification
- Proof of sales tax payment
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) verification
Title & Title Transfer
Georgia requires a boat title for all motorized vessels and sailboats requiring registration. The title application fee is $18.00, and transfers cost $18.00.
Title required: Yes — All motorized vessels and sailboats requiring registration
Title application fee: $18.00
Title transfer fee: $18.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title or registration (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of paid sales tax
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 3 years
Renewal is available through the same channels as initial registration — online (if available), in person, or by mail. Be sure to renew before your registration expires to avoid late fees.
For more details, see our Boat Registration Renewal Guide.
Boater Safety Education Requirements
Georgia requires a boater safety course. Operators born on or after January 1, 1998, must complete an approved boating education course. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Operators born on or after January 1, 1998, must complete an approved boating education course
Accepted courses: Georgia DNR approved courses, Boat Ed, BoatUS Foundation
Course cost: Free (BoatUS) or paid providers
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: GA 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Block letters, contrasting color to hull
Placement: Both sides of bow, forward half, reading left to right
Sticker placement: Each side of bow, before the prefix letters of registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
How Georgia Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $45.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Alabama | $25.00 | 1 year (October 1 – September 30) | Yes | 4% |
| Florida | $11.25 | 1 or 2 years | Yes | 6% |
| North Carolina | $34.00 | 1 year or 3 years | Yes | 4.75% |
| South Carolina | $10.00 | 1 year (renewed with county property taxes) | Yes | 5% |
| Tennessee | $15.86 | 1, 2, or 3 years | No | 7% |
Georgia Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Georgia?
Do I need a boating license in Georgia?
Can I register my boat online in Georgia?
Do non-residents need to register boats in Georgia?
How long is boat registration valid in Georgia?
Do I need a title for my boat in Georgia?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Georgia? Visit the official Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
This information is provided for reference purposes only. While we strive to keep data accurate and verified for 2026, registration requirements and fees may change. Contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division at 770-918-6400 for the most current information.